ADHD in Women and Girls
ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are less evident. They can also be mistaken for other disorders and this could delay the diagnosis.
Signs of anxiety, depression and eating disorders in females suffering from ADHD need to be investigated and treated as needed. The transitional phases of adolescence or pregnancy can also reveal and increase the severity of ADHD in some women.
1. Get a diagnosis
ADHD isn't easy to recognize in adulthood, particularly for women. A lot of the symptoms differ for women. While men tend to be more hyperactive and impulsive, females often struggle to concentrate or sit still. This means that they can be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues like depression or anxiety.
Doctors might not be aware with ADHD because it's more common in men and boys. This could lead to delays in diagnosis, as females aren't seen by doctors as often. Girls also tend to conceal their symptoms better than men which makes them less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They might resort to coping strategies that include concealing their face with makeup or acting out to hide their feelings and behaviour.
The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women are going through menopausal changes or perimenopausal. This is because they experience hormonal fluctuations that make them more prone to mood swings. It could also be challenging to follow routines and keep track of their tasks. This can impact their ability to manage their work, home and other responsibilities.
adult female adhd symptoms that are delayed for a long time can cause stress and anger for those who are unable to get the help they require. This is especially relevant for those who are who are on the NHS since there are only a handful of doctors who can perform ADHD tests. It can take a long time to get an appointment.
The first step in getting a diagnosis involves seeing your GP. It is important to inform your GP that you think you be suffering from ADHD. They will take this seriously and ask for an appointment. You must also state the reasons why you think you be suffering from ADHD. You can download a support letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to help speed up the process. You can also try to get an evaluation through private healthcare.
2. Talk to your doctor
Women with ADHD are more difficult to recognize due to the fact that their symptoms, particularly when they reach adulthood might not be as obvious. They may develop strategies to cover up their problems and they can be very damaging. They may do this by drinking excessively, smoking cannabis, and seeking to build support for their friends through high risk activities (e.g. crime, gangs, and promiscuity activities). Girls with ADHD may also be more susceptible to increased incidences of sexually transmitted infections and teenage, unplanned and early pregnancies.
Doctors take reports of ADHD extremely seriously and will ask about your symptoms. They will then direct you to the most appropriate service for your needs. This usually is a mental health service or a specialized Neurodevelopmental Service.
Waiting times for these services can be lengthy and in some instances it can be difficult to get referrals because the issue is not taken seriously enough. This could be due to the fact that the GP doesn't know about adult ADHD or think that the person's challenges are caused by something else (like depression, anxiety or abuse of drugs) and not due to their ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to choose a therapist who has ADHD experience who is able to work with you in addressing your ADHD difficulties. Certain therapists specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD.
The management of ADHD symptoms is a long-term process that can last for a lifetime. The use of medication and diet changes can help reduce your symptoms. A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. On the other hand, a diet high in sugar and junk food can increase these symptoms.
It's also worth talking to your GP about whether mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation could be useful for you, as they can be extremely efficient in helping those suffering from ADHD to manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught to you by a qualified instructor. You can locate a teacher near you by using the NHS service locator.
3. Find a support group
Women with ADHD typically have less visible symptoms than males. This is probably due to the fact that females do not have as many symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity as their male counterparts. This can make it difficult for them to be diagnosed. But, that's not to suggest that they don't have any symptoms. In reality, they may have inattention ADHD symptoms which are more difficult to detect. In addition, they could have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can cause strained or dissolved relationships, especially with men.
Women with inattentive ADHD are more likely to experience difficulties at school and work. They may have trouble following directions in completing deadlines and keeping the track of commitments. They might also be unable to accept constructive criticism or positive feedback. These challenges can lead them to burnout, which can negatively impact their career and job performance.
Women with adult ADHD frequently have difficulty staying focused, forgetting easily and are not organized. They are also susceptible to depression, self-doubt and anxiety. Additionally, they can be troubled by their emotions and are often not understood by others. For example mood swings can be interpreted as an outburst of anger or frustration.
Despite these issues, there are plenty of resources available for adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective is a support group that is specifically designed for adults with ADHD. These groups are accessible both online as well as in person. These groups are a great way to seek advice on diagnostic methods for adults and children, and also how to manage your illness.
There are many adult ADHD support groups in the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD who wish to talk about their challenges, goals, and accomplishments. You can find the meeting details on their website or Facebook page. You can also contact them with any questions you may have or if you'd like the opportunity to attend the next event.
4. Exercise
Women with ADHD may have difficulty managing their symptoms, which includes menstrual cycles as well as menopausal changes. These hormonal changes can trigger or intensify emotional symptoms such as mood fluctuations and irritability.
Exercise can help reduce these symptoms, by producing feel-good hormones and decreasing stress. Additionally, it can help reduce excess energy and improve concentration and focus. Try to include a regular exercise routine in your day.
Do your exercise at home, or, if you want to be social join a club or gym. Exercise can alleviate certain ADHD symptoms however it cannot eliminate the symptoms. It should be incorporated with other strategies to manage symptoms. The goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.